BREAD PRICES.

Otago Witness, Issue 3444, 16 March 1920, Page 9

BREAD PRICES.

MASTER BAKERS DISSATISFIED. WELLINGTON, March 10. A deputation from the United Master Bakers' Union met the Prime Minister today with reference to the new prices for bread. They contended that a halfpenny increase on the 2ib loaf, even if flour were only increased by 30s per ton, did not leave sufficient margin for other increases which had to be met. The deputation also contended that the Board of Trade had dona sufficient in fixing the over-the-counter price, and that a larger margin should bo allowed for delivery. The North Island! bakers wished to hive a farthing extra for delivery, as was now allowed in the Soutfcu Mr Massey said this and a similar point in reference to the difference between the counter sales at bakers' shops and at stores could bo considered with the Board of Trade He proposed that the bakers should accept the prices suggested', and to fill in forms' to be prepared showing their actual sales for the month. When these forma were received he would be open to reconsider the position if loss were s hown. The bakers asked Mr Massey that they; should be recompensed for any loss shown, but to this he would not agree. The bakers said they were not satisfied! with this. They retired to consider the* position, and a little later intimated that they did not wish to s ee the Primo Minister again.